Yes, you can cut air roots on a monstera plant. Trimming aerial roots will not harm the plant, provided the plant receives sufficient light.
Understanding Monstera Aerial Roots
Monstera deliciosa, and other monstera varieties, develop aerial roots that help them climb and absorb moisture from the air. These roots often give the plant a lush, jungle-like appearance. While some plant enthusiasts appreciate this aesthetic, others prefer a cleaner look.
Trimming Aerial Roots: A Simple Procedure
Removing aerial roots is a straightforward process:
- Use sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears: This minimizes damage to the plant and prevents the spread of disease.
- Cut the roots close to the stem: This prevents leaving stubs that could potentially rot.
- Ensure good lighting: Adequate light is crucial for the plant's overall health after trimming roots, as it compensates for the loss of moisture absorption capabilities.
Why Remove Aerial Roots?
Many plant owners choose to trim aerial roots for aesthetic reasons, preferring a neater appearance. This is perfectly acceptable as long as you maintain adequate lighting conditions.
Important Considerations
Remember: sufficient light is key. If your monstera is already struggling due to low light, it is best to avoid trimming the aerial roots. The roots help supplement the plant's water intake, and removing them under low-light conditions could stress the plant further.
The provided reference states: "you can cut off aerial roots and the plant will be just fine – as long as LIGHT is good". This highlights the importance of good lighting conditions after trimming the roots.
